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IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR TEAM MEMBERS
PLEASE REFER TO THIS WEB PAGE FREQUENTLY FOR IMPORTANT NOTIFICATIONS FROM MANAGEMENT
04.03.23 Team Member Handbook Update 04/2023
Our handbook has been updated effective 04/01/2023. The link below will take you to a copy of the handbook.
If you would like a hard copy, please bring your current handbook to HR and we will print one for you.
Please review the changes (highlighted) and return the signed acknowledgment page to HR by Friday, 4/7/2023.
8.4.21 Mask Update REVISION 8/4/2021- Email from Debbie Markham
Team,
After further review and discussion, MMI will revise the mask policy effective 8/4/2021.
The COVID positivity numbers have risen a full percentile since Monday. Additionally, while vaccinated people are less likely to get infected with the Delta variant than their unvaccinated counterparts, those who do get infected carry just as much virus in their nose and throat as unvaccinated people, meaning they are just as likely to spread the disease to others.
Therefore, effective immediately, all team members will be required to wear a mask inside of the building, regardless of vaccination status, when not at their assigned work area. This includes restrooms, break rooms, halls/aisles, conference rooms, and visiting another’s office.
We will not be mandating any particular type of mask, but we do have some available should you not have one.
As always, it is our goal to continue to provide a safe work environment while we navigate the many phases of the pandemic.
Stay safe and well!
Debbie Markham
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8.2.21 COVID and Mask Updates - Email from Debbie Markham
Hello,
The COVID positivity rate in Douglas County has risen to over 5% - moving the county level from blue to yellow. This is the highest level since our return to the office in June, and it is double the number from just two weeks ago.
However, we will not be adjusting the mask policy (below in email dated 7/19/2021) at this time.
We are recommending that in-person meetings be paused and that MS Teams online meetings be resumed. If you must meet in person, all parties should wear masks regardless of vaccination status.
If you have been vaccinated, but are still uncomfortable with the uncertainty surrounding the variants, we encourage you to wear a mask while in the building.
If you have not been vaccinated or do not wish to share the information with us, a mask (covering your nose and mouth) is required when away from your work station, and in all common areas inside the building until further notice.
If you have been vaccinated but have not yet submitted your record to HR for your file, please do so at your earliest convenience.
We will continue to monitor the situation and make adjustments as we receive guidance from the State, the CDC, and OSHA.
Be well and stay safe!
Debbie Markham
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7.19.21 Clarification of Mask Policy - Email from Debbie Markham
MMI team members,
There has been some confusion surrounding our mask policy. This email is to provide clarification.
MMI MASK POLICY
- Fully vaccinated team members who are at least two weeks past the date of their final vaccine and have provided proof of vaccination to HR are NOT REQUIRED to wear a mask in the building.
- Unvaccinated team members, team members who are not two weeks past the date of their final vaccine, and team members who do not wish to provide proof of vaccination to HR ARE REQUIRED to wear a mask inside the building when away from their workstation. Masks must cover the nose and mouth completely. Additionally, these team members ARE REQUIRED to practice social distancing while in the facility.
- Team members who are not feeling well are encouraged to stay home. If working from home or taking the day off are not possible, anyone with a cough IS REQUIRED to wear a mask at their workstation and while in the facility. Anyone with a fever is NOT PERMITTED to enter or remain in the building.
Documented medical conditions excluded, these safety measures are not negotiable and apply to all team members of the company without exception, for the welfare of all team members and the company.
There are still risks associated with the COVID virus and its variants, and we continue to monitor and remain current in our knowledge of the situation. We hope that we will soon be able to end our mask and distancing requirements. Meanwhile, we recognize the frustrations some are expressing and understand emotions are high. Regardless, we must balance this with the needs of the many. We remain dedicated to providing a safe environment for all our team members, which includes following the recommendations of the CDC, WHO and OSHA.
A vaccination rate of 70% is considered to be the minimum threshold for herd immunity of COVID.
We currently have documentation of the following:
- 47 vaccinations out of 83 team members in Castle Rock for a percentage of 57%. That’s only 9 more team members for us to be able to lift the mask requirement.
- 7 vaccinations out of 11 team members at New Force for a percentage of 64%. That’s only 1 more team member to be able to lift the mask requirement.
- 6 vaccinations out of 12 team members in Ohio for a percentage of 50%. That’s only 2 more team members to be able to lift the mask requirement.
- 2 vaccinations out of 2 team members at Miami Magnet for a percentage of 100%. Yea!
Please be respectful of your fellow team members as everyone has different feelings, opinions, and experiences associated with this issue.
We would like to thank everyone for their understanding and patience during these unprecedented times.
Sincerely,
Your HR Team
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Mask and Vaccine Update - Email from Debbie Markham
Team,
Recently the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated its guidance for fully vaccinated people. According to the CDC, “fully vaccinated people no longer need to wear a mask or physically distance in any setting, except where required by federal, state, local, tribal, or territorial laws, rules, and regulations, including local business and workplace guidance.”
MMI’s workplace guidance is now being directed by OSHA since federal, state, and local governments have relaxed their rules. Currently, OSHA is reevaluating their guidance and is directing businesses temporarily to the CDC for guidance.
In light of these developments, beginning Monday, 5/24/2021, MMI will not require masks for those team members who are fully vaccinated (two weeks post final vaccine).
Please provide HR with your proof of vaccination if you have not done so already.
If you are not fully vaccinated, masks and social distancing will remain in place while in the building.
Let us know if you have questions.
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5.5.21 ***Can we do it?*** Vaccination Rates at MMI, MME, MMC and NFM - email from HR
Coaches…Please share with team members who do not have Company email. (This was also sent to personal email addresses on file for employees)
Hello Team!
A mandatory mask-wearing requirement for Colorado was recently amended on May 2, 2021. The Executive Order states that Individuals are permitted to remove their masks in public indoor spaces if 80% of the individuals in the space have shown proof of vaccination, even if there are 10 or more unvaccinated individuals in the space.
We currently have 40% of our Team Members recorded as vaccinated in the Castle Rock facility, 36% in Ohio, 100% Miami Magnet (YAY! MMC, you are mask free!),and 33% at New Force! Let’s encourage one another and our family members to get their vaccine so we can all be mask free!
Our goal is to be 80% vaccinated with at least 1st shots of the vaccine by May 28th! If we can meet this goal, we will be mask free by the first day of Summer! Here is what we know for vaccine availability today:
Colorado
Walmart in Castle Rock, Parker and Elizabeth have appointments available as soon as tomorrow Immunize yourself and your family! (walmart.com)
King Soopers Pharmacy #132 on Ridge Road in Castle Rock has appointments available tomorrow and Friday. King Soopers - COVID-19 Vaccine
El Paso County: Broadmoor World Arena (Colorado Springs) - No appt needed Friday through Tuesday 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Ohio
Kroger – Marietta http://www.kroger.com/rx/guest/get-vaccinated
Walgreens-Marietta COVID-19 Vaccination | Walgreens Immunization Services
These are just a few of the facilities that have appointments available or take walk-ins, additional information is available at Find out where you can get vaccinated | Colorado COVID-19 Updates and OHIO - COVID-19 Vaccine Provider Locations | COVID-19 (ohio.gov)
FYI, up to *3 hours (per shot) is paid if time off from work is needed for your appointment. (Up to *3 hours to equal an 8-hour day. Proof of vaccination is required.)
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3.19.21 COVID Vaccine Update - email from Debbie Markham
Coaches…Please share with team members who do not have Company email.
Hi Team!
Phase 1B.4, which includes essential workers in manufacturing/ages 50+/ages 16-49 with one high-risk condition, is scheduled to begin today, 3/19/2021. If you have registered on any of the sites (sent in a previous email), you may be getting a call at any time!
If you work for Master Magnetics, New Force Magnetics, or Ads On Magnets YOU ARE an essential worker in the manufacturing industry and are eligible for Phase 1B.4 of the COVID vaccination plan. You are not required to provide proof of eligibility in order to receive the vaccine in Colorado and there is no charge for immunizations.
Master Magnetics would like to strongly encourage our team members to receive the vaccination to minimize the risk of infectious disease in our workplace. In making this decision, the leadership team reviewed recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and the Tri-County Health Department.
President Biden recently signed the American Rescue Plan Act. Like the previous extension, it does not require Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) paid leave, but allows employers to voluntarily offer paid time off for vaccines. Master Magnetics will be offering up to 3 hours for each vaccine which will not require you to use your accrued time off.
You may obtain the vaccination wherever you choose, but will be required to show proof of vaccination in order to use the FFCRA paid time off.
Additionally, for those who are Humana members and active in Go365, there will be an opportunity to earn points for the COVID vaccine. Details to follow soon!
Be well!
Debbie Markham
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3.1.21 Vaccine Update - Please Review - email from Debbie Markham
On Friday, 02/26/2021, Governor Polis revised the vaccine timeline and added a new category.
This change moves manufacturing essential workers to Phase 1B.4 with an anticipated vaccine date later in March.
You may still qualify for an earlier vaccine based on your age or health conditions.
Here is a copy of the vaccine phases.
Below are links with more information if you’re interested…
https://covid19.colorado.gov/for-coloradans/vaccine/vaccine-for-coloradans
https://coloradosun.com/2021/02/26/colorado-vaccine-plan-changes-essential-workers/
Debbie Markham
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2.25.21 COVID Update and Vaccine Information- email from Debbie Markham
Coaches…Please share with team members who do not have Company email.
Hi Team!
The positivity rate has fallen below the recommended 5% for the state of CO and Douglas County. Finally some good news!
MMI has not been able to secure an on-site clinic, so we wanted to provide you with vaccine information.
As of 2/22/2021, Colorado’s current vaccine administration phase is 1A, 1B.1 and 1B.2.
Phase 1B.3, which includes essential workers in manufacturing, is expected to begin on 3/5/2021.
If you work for Master Magnetics, New Force Magnetics, or Ads On Magnets YOU ARE an essential worker in the manufacturing industry and are eligible for Phase 1B.3 of the COVID vaccination plan. You are not required to provide proof of eligibility in order to receive the vaccine in Colorado and there is no charge for immunizations.
The latest vaccination data shows that over 825,000 people in our state have been immunized with one dose and 411,000 have been immunized with two doses.
If you have a provider without access to the vaccine, you can find resources by going to the following link:
https://covid19.colorado.gov/for-coloradans/vaccine/where-can-i-get-vaccinated
Links are provided to Centura, Health One, Kaiser, and UC Health to register for the vaccine.
(all counties are listed but the info above is for Douglas County)
Pharmacies providing the vaccine may include Walmart, Sam’s Club, Safeway, King Soopers, Walgreens, and CVS (depends on location – varies by state).
You may also visit the website for Tri-County Health Department at https://www.tchd.org/866/COVID-19-Vaccine
Those team members who are currently working from home will continue to do so through March. The COVID protocols of social distancing, temperature checks, and wearing a mask while inside the building will continue for those in the office.
Best wishes to all!
Debbie Markham
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1.26.21 February 2021 COVID-19 Update - email from Debbie Markham
Good morning all!
I hope 2021 is treating you all well so far.
Colorado’s positivity rate remains above the recommended 5% - an improvement from the holiday spike, but still higher than last Spring.
As of Monday, 372,200 people have been immunized with one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, and 82,659 people have been immunized with two doses. There are 588 vaccine providers. (*Numbers provided are for Colorado)
Colorado COVID-19 toll-free hotline — 1-877 CO VAX CO or 1-877-268-2926 — will be operating from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday-Friday over this final week of January and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. this weekend before turning into an all-hours operation next week.
We have not received any additional information regarding a vaccine clinic but will update you when we do.
It is likely mask wearing, social distancing, and other pandemic measures will remain in place until Summer when the vaccine is scheduled to be available for everyone.
Additionally, cases of the variant have been identified in Colorado.
For those working from home, we will continue to be remote through the month of February.
Continue to be safe and be well!
Debbie Markham
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1.26.21 February 2021 COVID-19 Update - email from Debbie Markham
Hi everyone,
I hope you and your families are doing well in the new year!
I wanted to share some information from Humana regarding the COVID vaccine.
I know there are no specifics on when and where yet, but from what I understand there will not be a cost associated with the vaccine.
Also, we are checking into the possibility of an on-site clinic (similar to the flu shot clinic) when the time comes.
Please let us know if you have any questions.
Stay safe and healthy!
Debbie Markham
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12.31.2020 January 2021 COVID update - email from Debbie Markham
Greetings all and welcome to the last day of 2020!
I doubt anyone could have imagined when this year began the challenges we’ve met both personally and professionally over the last nine months.
We are so thankful for all of you doing your part to keep your family, friends, and coworkers safe and healthy, and your commitment to keeping MMI strong.
The numbers for Douglas County and Colorado have started to come down which we hope may begin to signal a return to “normalcy” in 2021.
We will continue remote working through the month of January and will update you to any changes as they become available.
Have a safe and happy new year!
Debbie Markham
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12.3.2020 MMI COVID-19 update for December 2020 - email from Debbie Markham
Hi everyone!
We hope you all were able to enjoy the Thanksgiving holiday. There are still many things to be thankful for in spite of the ongoing COVID concerns.
As you are probably aware, there have been changes to Colorado’s Status Dial in the past weeks to reflect a new category - Extreme Risk (purple). Douglas County is now at Severe Risk (red) with a two-week positivity rate over 12% and is expected to worsen in the weeks leading up to Christmas.
Our continued goal is for everyone to be able to work safely during this uncertain time. We will continue remote work for those who are currently doing so through the end of the year.
We appreciate the efforts of all the MMI team members and hope you continue to remain safe and healthy.
Be well!
Debbie Markham
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11/11/2020 MMI Castle Rock On-site COVID protocol updates - email from Jenni Brown
Team,
This email is to recap the in-person, socially distanced meetings that I had this morning with Production, Warehouse, and Ads On Magnets teams:
The number of COVID cases is currently at its highest level since the pandemic began.
As of 11/10/2020, the positivity rate in Colorado is at 12.1% and at 10.2% in Douglas County.
It is our goal to remain open for business and keep those who are working onsite safe and healthy.
To that end, we are instituting the following updates in addition to our working onsite policy:
- Masks must be put on prior to entering the building and remain on until departing the building.
- Masks must be worn at all times in the building unless you are in an office with a closed door, by yourself.
- Social distancing of 6+ feet must be maintained even during lunch and breaks.
- Plexiglass will be installed at all lunch room tables and picnic benches.
- Continue to be diligent about cleaning your workstations and any other cleaning assigned to you.
- If there are cleaning supplies or masks that you need for your workstation please let your coach know, or contact HR.
- Stay home if you are ill and call the Master Magnetics Human Resources Hot Line at 303-688-3966 ext 411 to report symptoms.
- These policies are based on state mandates that are in place to help keep our Team members safe. Failure to follow the rules will result in a safety violation.
Bonus! If we can make it 30 days without a safety violation related to these COVID protocols, we will bring in a catered Chick Filet lunch for everyone working onsite.
You may want to consider joining this app:
Smartphone COVID-19 Notification Technology is now Live Statewide
CDPHE has launched its statewide COVID-19 exposure notification system, in partnership with Google and Apple. When users enable the service, their smartphones share anonymous tokens with other users through the phones’ Bluetooth technology. If another user tests positive for COVID-19 within a 14-day period and chooses to upload their results, users at risk of infection will receive an alert of potential exposure.
Tokens are not associated with any phone number, name, location or IP address and they change every 15 minutes to add an extra layer of anonymity. Learn more about CO Exposure Notifications at addyourphone.com.
We have been doing a great job for the past nine months. Let’s keep up the good fight. We owe it to ourselves.
Be Well,
Jennifer Brown
Chief Operating Officer
Master Magnetics, Inc. ● 1211 Atchison Ct., Castle Rock, CO 80109
1.303.688.3966 ext. 112
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10.23.2020 Updated Contract Tracing Guidelines from the CDC - email from Debbie Markham
FYI from the CDC…
The updated guidance now indicates that workers should be considered to be at risk of contracting the novel coronavirus if they were within six feet of an infected individual for a total of 15 minutes or more over a 24-hour period during the 48 hours before the infected individual exhibited symptoms or, if asymptomatic, 48 hours before the COVID-19 test was administered, even if the interactions that lead to a cumulative total of 15 minutes were brief and spread out over that time.
The CDC has updated the definition of the term “close contact.” The latest definition now provides the following definition to identify someone who should be considered at risk of being infected:
Someone who was within 6 feet of an infected person for a cumulative total of 15 minutes or more over a 24-hour period starting from 2 days before illness onset (or, for asymptomatic patients, 2 days prior to test specimen collection) until the time the patient is isolated.
Practically, this means that you must now determine which employees were within six feet of an infected employee for a combined total of 15 minutes or more over any 24-hour period within the 48 hours prior to the sick individual showing symptoms, and not just during one 15-minute period. For example, an employee who was within six feet of an infected person on three occasions of five minutes in length each, or eight occasions of two minutes each, is now considered to have had “close contact” with that person and must quarantine.
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10.16.2020 - Tri County Health Department (TCHD) Covid-19 Guidance Documents:
TCHD Guidance for Returning to Work
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10.15.2020 Sick Call Reminder - email from Debbie Markham
Hi all,
I hope you continue to be well and safe!
This is a reminder that any time you are out due to illness, you must call extension 411 to report your symptoms. You should also call in if you are not exhibiting symptoms but have been exposed to an individual with COVID-19.
We are required to keep records for tracking purposes during the pandemic.
Thank you for cooperating!
Debbie Markham
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10.13.2020 Covid-19 Exposure Information - email from Debbie Markham
First, we want to extend our appreciation to this team who has demonstrated tremendous commitment to our business during this difficult time. Please be assured that the health and safety of all our team members, customers, and vendors is always our priority.
Today we want to inform you that we have recently been notified that a team member in the upstairs offices of our Castle Rock facility has tested positive for COVID-19 and is asymptomatic. It has been 5 days since the affected individual has had any contact with other team members. Please be assured that all those that have been identified as being contact traced have already been personally notified. Out of an abundance of caution, those team members are self – quarantining through the end of the week and will require a negative COVID-19 test result before returning to the facility. The affected team member is self-isolating in accordance with public health recommendations. Due to the HIPAA privacy act, Master Magnetics is not allowed share the identity of the individual. Please do not speculate and spread rumors if you think you know who it is.
We realize this is unsettling news, and want to assure you that we’re taking additional precautions to increase the safety of our workplace, including increased sanitizing and cleanings — particularly in high traffic or common areas — spacing workstations, increasing remote-work capabilities, temperature assessments, providing masks & gloves, eliminating meals in common areas, and modified visitor policies.
As a reminder, if you are sick please stay home. Also:
- The virus is transferred via respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs. Therefore, be sure to practice social distancing, which is allowing a minimum of 6’ between you and another person.
- Wash your hands frequently for 20 seconds with warm water and soap. If washing is unavailable use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue if you cough or sneeze or use your arm.
- If you have a cough, fever, shortness of breath or other flu-like symptoms, stay at home, call your doctor, and don’t risk exposing others to illness. Staying home prevents the spread of the virus and minimizes exposing co-workers.
- If you have been directly exposed to COVID-19 or have tested positive for the virus, stay home and please contact Human Resources to discuss our leave policy and other items. We are here for you and have put policies in place to help support you as during a difficult time.
- Please be aware that some people, such as older adults and those with chronic medical conditions, may be at higher risk for severe illness and should take additional precautions.
- No handshaking – use other noncontact methods of greeting another person.
- It may be possible that a person can get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes, but this is not thought to be the main way the virus spreads. Consistently disinfect your work area surfaces like doorknobs, tables, desks and alike regularly with anti-viral wipes we’ve provided.
- Increase ventilation by opening windows where and when possible.
As the situation continues to unfold, it is important to understand the facts about COVID-19 and to rely on credible sources for news and information. Guidance and any specific requirements for COVID-19 mitigation and response are being provided by authorities such as the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC).
Should you have questions about this, or anything related to this ongoing situation, please don’t hesitate to contact Human Resources.
Be safe and stay well.
Your HR Team
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9.28.2020 -COVID-19 Update October - email from Jennifer Brown
Greetings All!
I hope you all are still safe and healthy.
As of now, the State of Colorado’ Mandatory Mask Mandate has been extended until 10/13/2020.
In the past two weeks there has been an uptick in cases - especially in the 18 to 25 year old age group around colleges - and Douglas County is still at Safer at Home Level 1: Cautious.
For these reasons, I have decided that those team members who have been working remotely will need to continue to work remotely for the month of October.
Keep working hard and doing your part to help get us through this.
Be Well,
Jennifer Brown
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9.17.2020 - Decision Not to Defer Social Security Tax Withholding - email from Dawn Tafoya
On Aug. 28, 2020, the IRS issued Notice 2020-65, allowing employers to temporarily defer withholding the employee's portion of Social Security payroll taxes for pay periods starting Sept. 1 through Dec. 31, 2020, as directed by an Executive Order issued by President Donald Trump. Unless Congress passes additional legislation forgiving the repayment of this tax deferral, employees would be required to repay the taxes by doubling the employee's Social Security tax paycheck withholding to 12.4 percent during the first four months of 2021.
Master Magnetics, Inc. has decided not to stop the withholding of Social Security taxes from employees' pay at this time. This decision was made due to the administrative challenges of implementing changes to our Paycom payroll software on such short notice, coupled with concerns about the significant reduction in an employee’s take-home pay that would occur during the first four months of 2021.
In the event that Congress passes legislation forgiving the tax repayment or the Treasury Department issues guidance regarding the ability of employees to make individual choices regarding participation in this tax deferral, we will reassess this decision and employees will be promptly notified of changes, if any.
Should you have any further questions, please contact Human Resources.
A posting has been placed on the communication board in the lunchroom for all employees to view.
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8.27.2020 - September COVID Update from Jennifer Brown
Hello everyone,
It’s hard to believe that we are approaching September already. We have come a long way since this Covid-19 all started. The year 2020 is shaping up to be one of the most trying years in our recent history. Each one of us has been exposed to the many health, social, political, economic, educational, and family crisis this year that it can be difficult to cope with at times. Know this. You are strong. You are resilient. You are making a difference for our team at Master Magnetics. We are making good progress getting through this together. And I truly appreciate the personal strength you bring to work each day.
Our sales revenue is trending back upward and we have plenty of work to do. In fact, we are in need of more people. If you know someone who needs a job, please refer them to our HR department. You could even earn a Team Member referral bonus!
That being said, here is the Covid-19 plan update. The Colorado Safer At Home mandate and mask order is still in effect. Even though we are seeing the number of Covid-19 cases decreasing in Colorado, it is possible that there will be a regression due to back to school activities. It is important to continue to use caution, social distance, wash hands frequently, and wear masks not only at work, but out in public. Please, keep up your guard against this virus. At this time we are not planning to bring remote working team members back into the office for at least another 30 days. You all are still safer at home.
Be Well,
Jennifer Brown
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8.21.2020 - Sick Call Update from Debbie Markham
We have updated the voicemail at extension 411 with the following questions we need answered when you are calling in sick.
Please answer the following questions in leaving your message:
- Have you been exposed to or diagnosed with COVID 19?
- Do you have a fever above 100 degrees?
- Do you have a cough?
- Are you experiencing shortness of breath?
- Do you have muscles aches?
- Have you experienced a loss of taste and/or smell?
Thanks for your cooperation!
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7.27.2020 - COVID-19 Update from Debbie Markham
Greetings All,
Colorado and Ohio are under statewide mandates requiring masks in all indoor locations that are not a private residence as well as any situation where social distancing cannot be maintained.
Colorado has slowed the spread of COVID-19 through Stay-at-Home and Safer at Home orders, and we must keep it up. The virus is still present in Colorado and can re-surge at any time. Everyone needs to do their part for themselves, their loved ones, and our community. Right now, we are in Level 2: Safer at Home and in the Vast, Great Outdoors. While we are all still safer at home, we are also able to practice greater social distancing in our vast outdoors than in confined indoor spaces. Much of Colorado is now open with restrictions to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and protect those at highest risk for severe illness.
Please continue to use caution, social distance, wash hands frequently, and wear masks not only at work, but out in public. Please, keep up your guard against this virus. At this time we are not planning to bring remote working team members back into the office for at least another 30 days. You all are still safer at home.
We hope you are all doing well!
Stay Healthy!
Debbie Markham
Human Resources Manager
1.303.688.3966 ext. 103
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7.2.2020 - Happy New Year! And Covid-19 update for MMI - Email from Jennifer Brown
Hello everyone and Happy New Year! Yesterday was the first day of our new fiscal year for Master Magnetics. This is the time of year that Accounting does all the financial calculations to close out our books for the year. It is a time when Sales and Operations teams strategize about how we can sell and ship more magnets – actually, we are always looking at that. And it is also a time when we can reflect on our successful impact this business has had on our team members, the community, and stakeholders. Yes, it was 44 years ago that Jack and Sandy Nellessen started this company. Never, have we had to navigate such an unprecedented time as that of the Coronavirus pandemic. We will get through this together.
That being said, here is the Covid-19 plan update. Governor Polis has extended the Safer At Home, and in The Great Outdoors phase by another 30 days. As we are seeing the number of Covid-19 cases increase in Colorado and surrounding states, it is likely that there will be a regression in our attempts to “flatten the curve”. It is important to continue to use caution, social distance, wash hands frequently, and wear masks not only at work, but out in public. Please, keep up your guard against this virus. At this time we are not planning to bring remote working team members back into the office for at least another 30 days. You all are still safer at home.
Have a Happy and Safe Independence Day holiday.
Be Well,
Jennifer Brown
Chief Operating Officer
Master Magnetics, Inc. ● 1211 Atchison Ct., Castle Rock, CO 80109
1.303.688.3966 ext. 112
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5.6.2020 - Covid-19 Update for Master Magnetics Team Members
E-mail from Jennifer Brown
To Production and Warehouse Teams:
Wow! It’s May already! And another pay period has been completed. Everyone is doing a good job wearing masks, disinfecting frequently, and keeping their 6 foot distance. Remember to keep your distance at lunch time too. We will continue the Appreciation Bonus for production and warehouse workers for both pay periods in May. Keep up the good work!
To Office Teams:
We are not looking to bring the office teams back to HQ yet. You all are still safer at home. Keep in close contact with your team and your coach. I know it has not been easy to transition to working from home. In fact, I never imagined that we would ever have to work like this. But we all found a way to learn how to do it and succeed. Our managers are learning how to work with remote teams. Everyone is learning how to use the Teams software for video meetings, Chat, and sharing screens and files. Most of you are using your own computers at home and your personal internet access. That is what really allowed us to be able to deploy this quickly and cost effectively. That being said, and in appreciation of how well we have been adjusting to the new ‘normal’, you will find an Appreciation Bonus in your paychecks for both pay periods in May as well. Kudos to you all.
The timing of these bonuses coincides with the receipt of the funding from the Payroll Protection Program Loan (PPPL) that we received from the federal government and is being shared with team members. Unfortunately, if you qualified for, and used FFCRA paid time off during the pay period, then we cannot also extend the bonus during that pay period.
Thank you all for your patience, perseverance, loyalty, and hard work.
Stay healthy. Stay safe. Stay Magnet Strong!
Jennifer Brown
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4/24/2020 - Stay-at-Home Order and Office Update
Email from Debbie Markham
Hi team!
We hope that you and your families continue to be safe and healthy!
Although the State of Colorado is transitioning to a Safer-at-Home model effective April 27th, Tri-County Health department has extended the stay-at-home order through May 8th. Production and Warehouse team members are welcome to come back before that if they wish, but must schedule it with their coach. We would ask for those team members working remotely to continue to do so. There is no rush to bring all remote workers back to the office until the Safer-at-Home transition model comes to a close. We will be monitoring the progression of the government models as well as our workload in determining when to bring teleworkers back to the office. Stay in close contact with your coach regarding work load and technical issues.
For anyone returning to the office for the first time since working remotely, please be advised that you should enter the building through the main front doors upstairs and check in with Ruth at the reception desk for a temperature check and to receive a mask before entering your work area. A mask must be worn at all time while inside the building for the continued safety of all our team members.
Debbie Markham
Human Resources Manager
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4.21.2020 - MMI Team Member update COVID-19
Email from Jennifer Brown
Dear MMI Team Members,
Just checking in with everyone to see how you are doing and to let you know the latest happenings at HQ. Since late March we have taken several steps to mitigate the spread of the Covid-19 throughout our entire team. A large portion of our administration, marketing and sales teams are working from home. This has reduced the number of personnel contacts within our facilities and helps to protect those continuing to produce and ship our products. On site in Castle Rock, Elbert, and Ohio we have implemented the use of face masks, social distancing, frequent hand washing, regular sanitization of high traffic surfaces, and just added a body temperature check upon arrival to the worksite.
We started receiving shipping containers again from our vendors in China after their long Chinese New Year and extended Coronavirus shut down. We received 4 shipments since April 9th and will receive a few more per week through the month of May. This is allowing us to ship our back log of items that have been on back order. Production teams still have many work orders to catch up on and to build to our forward forecasts. Our sales bookings are about 25% what they normally are, however, we do have some key accounts that are opening their demand back up to us. Overall, we are fairing better than many businesses in this crisis. I am thankful that we are part of the Essential business supply chains of the many industries that we are in. Magnets are so relevant, and they never go out of fashion.:)
Our federal government has enacted several new laws amidst this pandemic state of emergency. Our administrative team is working hard to make sure we are compliant with any new regulations and seeking government loan assistance where appropriate. One such law that we have informed you about is the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA). If you think you qualify for any of the scenarios under the FFCRA, please discuss it with HR. They have the form to fill out and can tell you what accompanying documents will be necessary in order to qualify.
Remember that if you are sick, please stay home, contact your coach, and then contact HR (411) to report if it is COVID related or not.
Another helpful federal program under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act (CARES) has allowed us to make amendments to our 401k plan, which you will hear about soon. It will allow those affected by COVID-19 emergency access to their 401k account funds. The third federal program that we researched is the Payroll Protection Program Loan (PPPL). This loan is designed to assist employers with the cash funds to keep workers employed. We took immediate steps to apply for this loan a few weeks ago. It took us several hours to put together all the documentation for submittal, and hoped there was nothing we missed that would jeopardize our eligibility or cause delay. When we didn’t hear anything back from the bank, but started hearing on the news that all the funding for this program had been used up, we got pretty concerned. Finally after a few nerve-wracking weeks, the loan came through. Hooray for us!
Some of you have been asking what our “Return to the office” plan will be. We will make that announcement on or before May 1, once we have more guidance and dates from our state and local governments. The federal government has given a framework for a 3 Phased approach to lifting the stay-at-home orders. Until then, keep up the good work. Stay safe. Be Healthy.
Jennifer Brown
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4.3.2020 - COVID Safety Plan - REVIEW
Email from Debbie Markham
**Coaches…please share with team members without access to company email.
Team,
I wanted to share with you some additional measures we have implemented to continue to protect everyone’s health during this time.
The following areas of responsibility for disinfecting are in place:
- Ruth will wipe down the lobby door handles as well as reception area, exit bar on Door A, and the upstairs time clock
- Dawn will wipe down the door handles on all HR/Accounting hallway doors and ladies’ restroom doors near the upstairs kitchen
- Everyone will wipe down their own office/work areas
- Lance will wipe down Exit Door C and the “coffee bar” area by Sales
- Monica will wipe down handrails leading downstairs, the upstairs kitchen and the ladies’ restroom across from Accounting
- Al will wipe down the downstairs employee entrance Door Q, timeclock, Door P next to overhead doors, breeze way, double door entry and production entry doors, vending machine buttons, water fountains, breakroom downstairs, and light switches around those areas
- Tony created cleaning assignments for the warehouse and communicated those to his team
- The conference rooms have been closed
- We will clean high use areas (restrooms and breakrooms) every two hours and less populated office areas at least twice daily
- Restroom disinfecting will include door handles, fixtures, stall doors, and toilet handles
Al is also responsible for:
- Mixing the disinfecting solution
- Transferring to spray bottles
- Training team members how to use properly
- Advising on proper PPE
We distributed surgical-type masks to all team members staying in the building. Office personnel must wear mask when outside of their office. Production and Warehouse team members must wear a mask at all times inside the building.
Two infrared non-contact thermometers have been ordered and are scheduled to arrive by 4/8/20.
On 4/9/20, we will restrict access to one door downstairs (Door Q) for Production and Warehouse team members entering the building in the morning. Tony and Al will wear masks as they take the temperature of the arriving employees. Anyone with a body temperature of 100 degrees or more will not be allowed to enter the building. Alex will take the temperature of the few office people who enter through the front door.
If a team member needs supplies, they should request needed items from their coach. If the coach, does not have the supplies to replenish, they should contact HR.
Stay healthy!
Debbie Markham
Human Resources Manager
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4/2/2020 - COVID-19 update for MMI Team Members
Email from Jennifer Brown
Hello MMI Team,
We are taking additional steps today to enhance our cleaning, PPE, and social distancing protocols in the office and production/warehouse areas. The CDC has been saying for months that masks are not helpful and that people should leave them for the healthcare workers. If they are effective for doctors, then they are effective for patients as well. The people of China and Japan have been using masks effectively for years. We have recently received a supply of masks from our friends and vendors in China and USA. Studies have shown that the virus can remain airborne for longer than just a few seconds after a sneeze and even from the breath of a conversation.
Up until recently we followed our governments guidelines and had not made masks a priority. Now our government is even changing their stance. We have a mask supply and we will use them at MMI to protect our people. The Safety Team met today to create a plan and new guideline for us to follow while we are in the building. Not only will this include wearing masks, but it will include additional disinfecting of bathrooms, breakrooms and personal work areas, to name a few.
We continue to scour the internet and local stores foraging for cleaning wipes, gloves, germ gel, and other supplies. As you know, they are a scarce resource. If you happen to come across disinfecting wipes when you are at the store and if you don’t need them for yourself, please purchase them, and I will reimburse you.
We have closed off all of our upstairs meeting rooms and are limiting face to face interactions by use of video chat and phones.
I appreciate what you all are doing to help keep MMI afloat during this difficult time. MMI wants to keep you employed for as long as we are able. But first and foremost is the health of you and your family. If you are sick, please stay home. And like I said before, if you don’t feel comfortable being here then please speak with your coach about taking Vacation, PPT, or unpaid time off. You might also look into qualifying for paid time off under the rules of the recently enacted FFCRA .
Look for the new safety guideline to come out no later than tomorrow.
Be Well.
Jennifer Brown
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3/27/2020 - Family FIrst Coronavirus Respond Act (FFCRA)
Email from Debbie Markham
The Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) poster which outlines the employee rights under the act is attached for your information.
Because we are an essential employer, at this time, MMI is not subject to qualifying reason #1 regarding a quarantine or isolation order.
If you are advised by a healthcare provider to self-quarantine or have COVID-19 symptoms and are seeking a medical diagnosis, please notify HR immediately (303-688-3966 ext 411) or email people@magnetsource.com.
Thank you for your continued efforts to keep our essential business customers happy and you and your families healthy.
This poster will be posted at all facilities.
Debbie Markham
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3/25/2020 - Tri-County Health issues "Stay at Home" Order for Douglas County- which includes Castle Rock
Email from Jennifer Brown
Dear MMI Team Members,
Tri-County Health has issued a Stay – at – Home order for Adams, Arapahoe, and Douglas County for employees of non-essential businesses effective March 26 at 8:00 a.m. until April 17 at 11:59 p.m. The order can be read at the link below.
https://www.tchd.org/818/Coronavirus-COVID-19
Master Magnetics is not subject to this order because it is classified by Homeland Security as an “Essential Business”. As a team member of Master Magnetics you are part of a very essential business of national importance. We are essential to the supply chains of multiple key industries across the USA and abroad that serve the DOD, Hardware Stores, Automotive, Health, and Food processing, to name a few. We will continue business under the COVID19 safety protocol that we have been using for the past several weeks now. In addition, since I spoke to you all on Monday, we have effectively separated our in-person workforce to function at or beyond that 6 feet distancing and continue to clean areas and work surfaces. Again, if your personal choice is to not come in to work, please notify your coach and HR each day. You may use your Vacation, PPT, or unpaid time off and it will not count against your “Unscheduled” time.
Those who continue to drive to work should NOT need a Travel Authorization Letter to get to and from work. However, if you do get questioned, please show the authorities this email or simply tell them you are employed at an essential business. We will post this on the magnetsource.com/411 team member part of our website for easy access as well. If there are further questions, please have authorities contact our HR department for employment verification at 303-688-3966 ext 103.
Thank you for your continued work efforts to keep our essential business customers happy and you and your families healthy.
Best Regards,
Jennifer Brown
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3/23/2020- Colorado executive order regarding reduction in "in-person" workforce
Announcement from Jennifer Brown
Colorado team member,
Yesterday the Governor of Colorado, Jared Polis issued a “50% reduction of in-person workforce” order for the employees of all non-essential businesses. The state order begins on Tuesday, March 24 at 8am and extends through Friday April 10thth. This rule does not pertain to MMI because we ARE and an essential business in that we supply the hardware stores that are essential to the community. We have also recently sold magnets to a company who is trying to make ventilators, and we supply magnets to many different industries that are essential businesses. The company plans to continue to keep working to serve our customer the best we can and to keep our Team Members employed. If there is anyone who is not comfortable continuing to come to work, they may use vacation, PPT, or unpaid time off and stay at home.
Even though we are not subject to this executive order, we will be taking action steps to try to reduce the distance between TM’s while they work. I am asking each department to take a close look at options and solutions.
As long as we have a decent volume of work during this time we will continue to be open. We will evaluate our workload at the end of this week.
We will continue to use the COVID 19 protocol for reporting to work which includes the following:
- If you are sick, stay home (report absence to your coach, contact HR with details ext 411, or email people@magnetsource.com)
- If you have been exposed to COVID 19, stay home (let us know)
- If you test positive for the Coronavirus, stay home (let us know immediately)
- If you are in the high health risk category (https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/specific-groups/high-risk-complications.html ), stay home
- Elderly, pregnant, chronic underlying health conditions, heart, or lung disease.
- Keep 6 feet apart from co – workers. No meetings in close quarters (keep distance). Clean often used surfaces regularly.
- Where available, wear PPE.
Thank you for your respect and concern for each other’s health in these trying times.
We will get through this together, even if we are 6 feet apart.
Best Regards,
Jennifer Brown
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3/20/2020 - LATE START
Due to weather conditions, we will open at 9:00 AM today. Be safe out there!
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3/16/2020 - Covid-19 Update from Humana
from Debbie Markham
Humana has announced a series of steps aimed at protecting our members and reducing the spread of the new coronavirus disease, or COVID-19.
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), older adults and people with multiple chronic conditions are at higher risk for more symptomatic disease. Many of Humana’s Medicare Advantage members are living with multiple chronic conditions, which potentially puts them at a greater risk.
The situation involving the outbreak of COVID-19 is rapidly evolving, and we are implementing the following measures effective immediately:
- Testing is fully covered. Testing for COVID-19 will be fully covered with no out-of-pocket costs for patients who meet CDC guidelines at approved laboratory locations. This applies to members of Humana’s Medicare Advantage, Medicaid and commercial employer-sponsored plans. The CDC continues to offer free testing for coronavirus.
- Telemedicine visits for all urgent care needs are fully covered. To help reduce the risk of infection and spread of disease, Humana is encouraging members to use telemedicine (e.g., video chat) as a first line of defense for all urgent care needs. Humana will waive out-of-pocket costs for telemedicine visits for urgent care needs for the next 90 days. This will apply to Humana’s Medicare Advantage, Medicaid and commercial employer-sponsored plans, and is limited to in-network providers delivering live video-conferencing. Humana is working closely with federal agencies to understand the impacts of both telemedicine and the coronavirus test on High Deductible Health Plans and Health Savings Accounts. More information about Doctor on Demand
- Early prescription refills allowed for next 30 days – Humana is allowing early refills on prescription medicines so our members can prepare for extended supply needs—an extra 30- or 90-day supply as appropriate.
- Member support line available. Humana has trained a specialized group of call center associates to help support our members with specific coronavirus questions and concerns, including assistance in accessing their telemedicine benefits. Members can call Humana’s toll-free customer support line, which can be found on the back of their member I.D. card, to be connected to this dedicated team of professionals. *Note: ALL team members may utilize the EAP More information about Member Support
If you suspect that you have been exposed to coronavirus or are experiencing symptoms, please consult with your health care provider to seek testing recommendations and treatment.
Everyone is encouraged to wash their hands frequently and thoroughly, avoid close contact with people who are sick, stay home if you are ill, and cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze. Here is an easy-to-follow illustration of some steps you can take to help keep you safe and healthy.
More information on how to protect yourself is available from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The CDC offers specific advice for people who are at higher risk of serious illness, as well as a guide to steps everyone can take to help keep your home, workplace or school safe.
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3/13/2020 - COVID-19 (coronavirus)
from Debbie Markham on behalf of Jennifer Brown
To: All Master Magnetics Team Members
From: Jennifer Brown
Master Magnetics continues to monitor closely the emergence of the "coronavirus disease 2019" (COVID-19). At this time, no one knows how severe this outbreak will be. Given this uncertainty, and the fact that the seasonal influenza (flu) virus is also widespread, we are taking proactive steps to address a number of business concerns. First and foremost, we want to maintain a safe workplace and encourage and/or adopt practices protecting the health of team members, customers, visitors and others.
We ask all team members to cooperate in taking steps to reduce the transmission of communicable diseases in the workplace. Team members are reminded of the following:
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Wash your hands frequently with warm, soapy water for at least 20 seconds.
- Cover your mouth with tissues whenever you sneeze, and discard used tissues in the trash.
- Cough into your shoulder or elbow.
- Keep your hands away from your face.
- Avoid people who are sick with respiratory symptoms.
- Clean frequently touched surfaces.
- Social distancing whenever possible.
It is critical that team members do not report to work while they are experiencing respiratory symptoms such as fever, cough, shortness of breath, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Currently, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that team members remain at home until at least 24 hours after they are free of fever (100 degrees F).
Many times, with the best of intentions, team members report to work even though they feel ill. We provide paid personal time and other benefits to compensate team members who are unable to work due to illness. If a team member has exhausted all paid personal time and/or vacation, unpaid time missed for flu or viral illness will not count against unscheduled time during the COVID-19 outbreak.
Team members who report to work ill will be sent home in accordance with these health guidelines.
The TMRC event catered by Red Robin will be postponed and rescheduled at a later date. We will also not be scheduling any potlucks until further notice.
All tradeshow participation has been cancelled and work travel will be suspended for the next 30 days.
We are encouraging the use of telephone and video conferencing instead of face-to-face meetings as much as possible during this outbreak. Visitors will be allowed in business-critical situations only. No Will Call or walk-in customers will be allowed, nor will vendor visits be scheduled.
Master Magnetics is working to procure alcohol-based hand sanitizers to provide throughout the workplace and in common areas, as well as cleaning sprays and wipes to clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
We are working to ensure the continuity of business operations in the event the situation worsens. We will provide additional information as needed.
Please review the attached documents regarding exposure to COVID-19 and testing:
What to do if you have been exposed
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